SATYAN 5
-2. Wedding Bells Ring

The animosity that once brewed between Vasudev and Chandravarkar had now blossomed into a strong bond of friendship.  Vasudev welcomed them to his chambers and after exchanging pleasantries enquired with them the purpose of their visit.  Chandravarkar breathed hard and looked at Vasudev.  “My daughter, Somalatha, has now attained the age of marriage.  I desire to see her tying the nuptial nod with your son Rishabd.” 

Vasudev’s face became grim and he failed to respond.  Chandravarkar failed to gauge his friend’s mind from his serious expression.  Still, he took a paper in his hand which his Rajguru handed him over and unrolled it.  “This is a sketch of my daughter, O Vasudev!”  He said pointing to the picture in the paper.  “I strongly feel that she is far more lovely and sweet in person than in this drawing.  Of course, I may feel that way for after all she is my daughter!  However, this is by far the best sketch I have of her.” 

Vasudev had a good look at the drawing.  Somalatha appeared to be quite beautiful with attractive large eyes, thin eyebrows and well-shaped rosy lips.  Her black flowing hairs were let out above her shoulders which added up to her striking personality.  He looked at Chandravarkar with a slight grin but still gave no response.  Holding his hand tightly, the ruler of Kantipura declared, “My friend, please take your time and then come to a decision.  Even if you happen to reject my proposal it is not going to affect our relations.  Please trust me!” 

Vasudev agreed and led them to the resting place.  He thereby returned to his chamber and deliberated on his future course of action.  He then met his wife and informed her of the latest development.   Manorama’s excitement at this offer was scuttled when she had reminiscence of the uneasy relationship that Chandravarkar shared with her Lord in the past. 

 “I fear if the King would ask some undue favours taking advantage of this new relationship.  If this happens it may even adversely impact the congenial relations of Rishabd and Somalatha.  As this thought came to me, I just did not know how to respond.  Thus, I preferred to be silent.”  Vasudev concurred.

As Manorama nodded in understanding, the guard came with information that Sage Chakrabandhava sought an audience with them.  Vasudev hurried and escorted the saffron-clad sage inside.   

After they were seated, Chakrabandhava observed, “From your expression, it does not appear that you are happy with this proposal.” 

Vasudev had a quick glance at his Queen and thereby apprised the sage with his apprehensions.  The Rajguru of Kantipura took a while to respond.  “I too shall be as frank as you have been with me.  Just like I always want the best for my King and his family, which is why I put this proposal before him, so also, I desire the same for you, my dear friend!  Had I even had an iota of doubt that Somalatha would not prove to be a proper match for Rishabd I would never have come out with this proposition.  Please believe me!  My King has now undergone a change for the best, O Vasudev!  He values your friendship now like never before.  Thus, he would never do anything that would once again raise tensions between you.  That is all I have to say.  The rest is for you to judge.”  As the sage got up to leave Vasudev folded his hands and said, “O Sage!  Your reassuring words have lain to rest all my fears.”  He looked at Manorama who, too, agreed with him.  “Now we shall meet Rishabd and let him decide on this matter.” 

The sage smiled benignly and embraced Vasudev.  He, thereby, took his leave.  Later the parents met their son and filled him in with all that had happened.  Vasudev urged his son to give a proper thought in this matter and even meet Somalatha before arriving at a decision.  Rishabd gave his nod to his father’s views. 

King Chandravarkar thanked Vasudev and his family for considering his proposal positively.  It was decided that both Vasudev and Rishabd would accompany the King to Kantipura and meet his daughter.

The days to come witnessed the anticipated meeting of Rishabd with Somalatha on more than an occasion in Kantipura.  The Princess indeed looked more beautiful than in the picture shown by her father.  She appeared fairer, her large eyes were very expressive, and her pleasant smile brought sweet dimples on her glowing cheeks.  Conversing with her, Rishabd realised that she was a noble and very down-to-earth person.  She had imbibed the good qualities of her late mother who was her mentor.  The Princess, too, admired the affable and benevolent nature of the King of Chandrapur.  She was very impressed with the deep love and affection he possessed towards his parents.  Finally, they agreed to tie the knot much to the glee of their parents!  Through his priest, Chandravarkar fixed a day for the marriage which was a couple of months away.  He promulgated this news to his people who rejoiced at this upcoming joyous occasion. 

Vasudev’s happiness knew no bounds.  He thanked Lord Krishna for this happy moment.  He blessed his son to have a blissful married life. 

Vasudev’s friend Shiva who was now settled in that kingdom met him and offered his compliments.  The friends had a great time together having recollection of the past events.  Vasudev was very satisfied to see Shiva lead a well settled life with his family.

On returning to Chandrapur, he broke this news both to his Queen and the people.  Manorama was beset with delight and hugged her son.  The subjects, too, were exhilarated and showered the King with their warmest wishes and compliments.    

The coming days were very hectic for Vasudev for he went to several neighbouring kingdoms to invite the rulers, with whom he enjoyed excellent relations, for his son’s marriage.  King Bharadwaj and his family were exhilarated to hear this news.  They complimented him and wished Rishabd a very happy and blissful married life.